The Best Lawn Mower for Hills: A Complete Buying Guide

When it comes to home aesthetics, every one of us has different tastes and preferences. For those that have generous space in their yards, the options are pretty limitless.

Most of the time, homeowners try to mount some hills on their gardens and lawns. This kind of patio design enables variation in the overall appearance of your home. It is becoming a trend, especially in the United States and the United Kingdom. But there is one problem that these hills will give you: mowing them are cumbersome.

If you want this kind of setup, you need to get the best lawn mower for hills. Take note that ordinary mowers will find it difficult to deal with inclined platforms that are more than 15 degrees. The consensus suggests that walk-behind-mowers are the best for this application. But you should not also discard some variants of riding mowers as well. In fact, you should use the latter if you have a huge property.

You need to consider various things before you buy a lawn mower for hills. But for the meantime, let me introduce to you some of the top-tier options for this kind of backyard amenity. Curious? Let's cut the chase already!

When it comes to reliability and power, I would always yield down to the Troy-Bilt TB330. This particular lawn mower is a highly distinguished garden tool. It works well with sloped and hilly terrains, regardless of their height and degree of inclination. This machine operates by a 163cc OHV 725ex Briggs & Stratton motor. The latter also features a unique ReadyStart technology, which allows quick and foolproof start-ups to this mower.

Moreover, this particular lawn mower comes with a TriAction system. It is a powerful mechanism that allows the Troy-Bilt TB330 to provide clean and even results in just a single pass. Many of the lawn mowers today don't have this capability. Therefore, I can say that betting your money of this machine is truly a wise move. Of course, this is not the only feature that the Troy-Bilt TB330 has.

Another distinct capability of this lawn mower is its variable speed control. You can access this feature through a single lever alone, which truly shows it ergonomic side and innovativeness. With the speed control, you can adjust the power of the lawn mower to four different settings. As a result, you can gain maximum efficiency to your work without losing your pace.

Also, take note that the features a 3-in-1 capability. Specifically, it allows you to choose its mode of operation. You can use it for bagging, mulching, or side discharges. There is a bushel grass catcher that comes with its package for the side discharge function. It is a complete set indeed!

We like

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Easy to maneuver even in jagged terrains

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Can do different operations

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Controllable speed and power

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Durable and heavy-duty performance

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Quick startup

We do not like

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Folding its handle requires you to remove all the carriage bolts (which is very time-consuming)

If you want something else to try, this next option will snap your attention! The Snapper P2185020E is an excellent choice for home applications. It has a multitude of features that make this tool very usable and functional. Of course, you should not neglect the power and controllability.

First, let me introduce you to its Briggs and Stratton motor. This particular engine is a beast, as you can use this in many professional and heavy-duty machines, too. The cutting power that it has is incredible. It allows you to cut grasses in just a single pass. You don't have to look back anymore as the device already cleaned the mess!

Moreover, the engine has integrated a quick-startup system. You can operate this device right away without the need for priming. Just pull the lever, and the lawn mower is already alive!

One of the best-selling points of the Snapper P2185020E is its Hi VAC desk. This component enables the lawn mower to cut the grass cleanly and efficiently. Its mechanism is similar to a vacuum, which is pretty excellent, already! The blade that it uses is extremely sharp, which improves the speed of the cutting.

I like the rear-wheel drive setup of the Snapper P2185020E. The design enables you to maneuver the lawn mower quickly. You can turn it smoothly, which in turn, prevents any damages to your beloved grass.

Another impressive unit of lawn mower today is the Honda HRX217K5VKA Versamow System Lawn Mower. I deem that this one has almost the same quality and capabilities as the Troy-Bilt. Despite this, it still comes with a reasonable price.

Of course, the Honda HRX217K5VKA has some unique features that it can flaunt. It features an unparalleled adjustability, especially when it comes to its speed. Just rotate its speed dial and activate its drive control to adjust its power entirely. You can make this adjustment without breaking a sweat!

This machine features the patented Versamow System of Honda. It is a technology that enables the lawn mower to do bagging, mulching, shredding, and discharging without the help of external tools or attachments. This device is a one-person show. Once you can get it, you will never need anything else. Of course, it is a cost-efficient feature. After all, you will be no longer required to purchase extra accessories.

The Honda HRX217K5VKA also have the Microcut System. Specifically, the latter utilizes four cutting platforms that enable the machine to make excellent clipping results. Because of this capability, this lawn mower can do more mulch per bag compared to most of its competitors. Overall, it can lead to perfect and clean cuts and curtailed frequencies of bag-emptying. That's less hassle and stress on your part!

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Highly maneuverable even in uneven slopes and hills

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The body comes with NeXite (high-quality material that is resistant to rust and corrosion)

Admittedly, some of us might need something more. If you are maintaining a large area with sloppy terrains, it is clear as day already that ordinary walk-in mowers are not sufficient anymore.

For these needs, you might need the help of the Husqvarna 960430211 YTA18542 Pedal Tractor Mower. For those that have small yards to maintain, this device might be an unwise choice. After all, its price is not something that you can take as a joke. But if you already made a decision, let me assure you that it can become a quality investment.

This tractor mower is an ideal choice for mowing hills. One of the proofs for this is its Briggs & Stratton 18 HP Engine. As I mentioned earlier, the Briggs & Stratton motors are for heavy duty and industrial works. Now that this engine is on this lawn mower, you can expect that things would be convenient on your part already. Aside from that, the fuel capacity of the Husqvarna YTA18542 is 2.5 gallons. Since this tractor is a natural power saver, there is no need for you to spend on fuel too much.

The Husqvarna YTA18542 uses a 42-in deck, with integrated twin blades. Take note that the system features an automatic transmission for a more convenient usage. Of course, it is extremely maneuverable as it has a compact size. Moreover, its tires are quite responsive and appropriately elevated. You can run it on the field with ease!

Also, I will remind you that its auto transmission system reduces the need for constant maintenance. The system utilizes a specialized air induction technology. In layman's term, there is an improvement in the internal air circulation of the deck. That results in a professional and cleaner output.

I can say that the Troy Bilt Riding Lawn Mower has better maneuverability compared to the Husqvarna. I like the responsiveness and smoothness of this tractor. It makes mowing a lot easier, even if you are dealing with a challenging terrain. It is a compact machine that doesn't lack power and functionality. The Powermore OHV 382 cc engine operates it, which gives its deck the right cutting force that it needs.

The engine, just like the Briggs & Stratton, features a quick start feature. Therefore, there is no need for you to experience choking and priming. But on the flipside, the fuel capacity of the Troy Bilt Riding Lawn Mower is lower than the Husqvarna. Specifically, it is only 1.3 gallon. For large applications, this capability is quite limited. But for home and small areas, this is more than enough. Fortunately, this inadequacy is compensated by a fuel window. The component allows you to see the gas level easily.

However, let me give you a warning. I do not recommend that you should use this mower on hills that have more than 15 degrees of inclination. It might not be able to run on extremely sloped paths. But any angled terrains that are lesser than that, this tractor lawn mower is pretty usable.

We like

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Features a 30-inch cutting deck

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Comes with five cutting height presets

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Swiveling radius is 18 inches (extremely maneuverable)

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Blade operation is pretty simple

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Can do a myriad of mowing tasks

We do not like

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Its seat is mounted too high (short people would find discomfort while sitting on it)

Different Lawn Mowers for Hilly and Steep Terrains

Before you start shopping, you should check the landscape of your yard first. Is it flat, smooth, jagged, or hilly? If it is flat, then there is no need for you to invest on high-powered lawn mowers. But if it is an obviously challenging place, you will need the service of specialized mowers.

Always remember that ordinary mowers are difficult to operate, especially for uphill or downhill applications. They don't have the right design, power, and components. On the other hand, the right lawn mower can do this job with ease and convenience.

You can opt different types of mowers if you want to mow hills. Here are some of the popular options:

Riding Mowers

As its name suggests, riding mowers are like tractors. They allow you to ride on them, which is pretty convenient when compared to walk-behind mowers. But at the same time, they are quite susceptible to toppling, especially when you are working with extremely sloped terrains. That's why I recommend that you should not use them on steep hills.

If you are going to choose this mower, make sure that it has a large set of rear wheels. Specifically, the latter should be bigger than the front wheels for better ground traction. Also, when you are using this tool, make sure that the floor is dry. It lessens the chance of tipping over.

Zero-turn Mowers

When it comes to large-scale applications, you should pick zero-turn mowers. The device is capable of making zero-degree turns with the use of hydraulics. It allows the machine to be highly maneuverable, as you can quickly shift its trajectory. The rear wheels of zero-turn mowers have independent power on them.

Walk-behind Mowers

They are the most fundamental choice when it comes to working with hilly terrains. Their only downside is that you have to operate them manually. But if your field is not that big, then it is not a problem that you should worry. Instead, just treat it as an exercise.

There is no risk of toppling when you are using this tool. Moreover, it offers maximum flexibility and maneuverability, as you can position wherever you want. Most of the walk-behind mowers today have powerful engines, large decks, and powerful blades. Therefore, they do not lack in any aspect.

Things to Consider In Buying the Best Lawn Mower for Hills

Deck Size

Always check and assess the deck size of the lawn mower that you are going to choose. It can determine the maneuverability of the device, especially on hills and slopes. For example, you can deal with an open slope by a lawn mower that has a deck width of 42 inches. But if you are going to take the lawn mower in narrow areas, it might not fit in anymore. The moral lesson here is to gauge your field first before going shopping.

Rear Wheel Drive

The traction of a lawn mower is dependent on the power that the rear wheel drive has. You can leave the front wheel as it is. Just turn your focus on the rear wheel. You can never maneuver a lawn mower on a hill if it doesn't have enough power. Moreover, the rear wheels should be bigger than those in the front. This setup provides enhanced ground traction.

Versatility

I do not recommend that you should get those lawn mowers that requires attachment. You don't need extra pieces of baggage whenever you are operating this tool. Aside from being a hassle, these additional accessories and loads will incur more cost. As you have seen already, the prices of lawn mowers are not that small. Therefore, these investments should come in a single piece alone. Otherwise, you should move to a better option.

Operation

I don't know about you, but I want my lawn mower to have a straightforward process. I want it to have a quick start-up mechanism and maneuverability at the same time. Don't complicate yourself. Mowing the field is a stressful task already. Do not add any complications to it. Make sure that the lawnmower you get can assemble correctly and can operate efficiently. Moreover, it should be able to do various tasks such mulching, bagging, and side discharge.

The Weight

That is a big issue, especially for walk-behind mowers. Pushing a heavy lawn mower is not all fun-and-games. If you are dealing with a large yard, the weight of the device could already stress you out. Now, just imagine pushing a large lawn mower on a sloped terrain. Isn't it a dreadful thought?

I am not asking that a lawn mower should be extremely lightweight. If that is the case, then that lawn mower is pretty suspicious already. I just want to emphasize that the lawn mower should have a proper weight-to-size ratio. In this way, you won't burn yourself too much.

Final Verdict

When it comes to mowing hills, I suggest that you check the Troy-Bilt TB330 lawn mower first. For me, it has the most ergonomic and innovative performance. It is easy to maneuver and handle. Its operation is not complicated. And it doesn't require too much maintenance. It has a powerful engine with a generously built-deck to ensure that you can bring it on any terrain.

I also want to emphasize that this tool is power efficient. It doesn't consume too much fuel per every operation. Furthermore, the Troy-Bilt TB330 is reasonably priced, too. It is not an entry-level mower, but its price tag is something that anyone could accept. Some brands out there have exaggerated pricing. Be wary of them.

These features are some of the reasons why I ranked the Troy-Bilt TB330 as the highest on this list.

But for you, which of these options do you is the best lawn mower for hills? You can tell me all of your answers in the comment section below!

This website was created and is supported by a person who has been in the business of working with power tools, dedicated to home improvement projects both professionally and for the do it yourself type of person.